Q. What are the ticket prices?
A. Tickets are $15 each. Children 5 and under are free. Tickets can be be purchased with cash or card at the gate or in advance by using this link: https://www.zeffy.com/.../tic.../2026-bandapalooza-admission
Q. Will videos be provided?
A. A video will be provided to each band with the judges packet.
Q. Where is Bandapalooza?
A. Bandapalooza is located at Portland East Middle School / Edgar Johnson Stadium 604 S Broadway St, Portland, TN (Not at Portland High School).
Q. Where should spectators park?
A. Due to ongoing construction, parking at Edgar Johnson Stadium will be limited. Several nearby businesses have graciously allowed Bandapalooza spectators to use their lots. Parking is first come, first served, and there will not be parking attendants. Carpooling is strongly encouraged. Please refer to the spectator parking map before arriving.
Q. Who are the judges for the competition?
Bandapalooza 2026 Judges
Band - Kip Crowder
Band - Craig Cornish
Band - John Murrey
Percussion - Kevin Jankowski
Color Guard - Brent Smith
Q. What awards are given out at Bandapalooza?
A. We give out 1st, 2nd and 3rd place awards in Band, Percussion, and Guard in each class, as well as Best Overall Guard, Best Overall Percussion, Most Entertaining Band, Best Pit Crew, Spirit Award, and the infamous Bandapalooza Grand Champion Award.
Q. How are classes determined?
A. We divide the contest into classes based on the total number of musicians (Winds & Percussion) once we reach the entry deadline. Within their classes, bands will perform in reverse order of when registration was received.
Q. What about food?
A. We will have an OUTSTANDING hospitality area for directors, staff, and drivers. We also offer concessions for parents and students. Cash and card is accepted.
Q. What are Bandagrams?
A. Bandagrams are special shout-outs to your favorite band member before they take the field. They are $5 each and can be purchased at the Bandagrams tent near the front gate.
Q. Can spectators leave and come back?
A. Each spectator will receive a purple wristband upon entry. You must have your purple wristband for re-entry.
Q. Oh no! What if it rains?
A. If the weather does not cooperate, we will unfortunately have to cancel the event. The decision to cancel will not be made lightly, and we will do our best to communicate promptly and efficiently if that becomes necessary on the morning of the event. Refunds will not be given due to inclement weather.